July 8, 2021

Ride On to Have Bus Schedule Changes Beginning Sunday, July 18; Flex On-Demand Service Returns in Rockville and Wheaton/Glenmont on July 19

Montgomery County’s Department of Transportation (MCDOT) will adjust Ride On bus schedules starting Sunday, July 18, to increase overall service and improve efficiency. The changes reflect the continuing shift of resources toward schedule patterns as the County reopens following the COVID-19 health crisis. As part of the increased service changes, the innovative Flex on-demand service will return in the Rockville and Wheaton/Glenmont areas on Monday, July 19.

Ride On planners have monitored ridership data and on-time performance feedback to identify routes that could achieve more efficiency with schedule updates. The information led to the 19 routes that will have schedule changes starting July 18.

Routes that will have schedule changes and some improved frequencies include: 1, 10, 1115, 1617 20, 34 46, 47, 484954, 55565759, 61, and 64. Click on the route number to see the timetable.

All County-operated transit services remain free of charge at least through Sept. 30.

Flash, the high-frequency service that has been operating since October on Colesville Road/ Columbia Pike (US 29) and Lockwood Drive, will continue to be fully operational. Flash destinations include Downtown Silver Spring, Four Corners, White Oak, Fairland and Burtonsville

The on-demand Flex service in the Rockville and Wheaton/Glenmont defined zones, returns to service on July 19 and now will include a call center for reservations.  Riders who choose to use the call center to schedule rides rather than mobile apps can call 240-301-3842.

Details about the Flex service zones can be viewed at RideOnFlex.com. While residents cannot book rides until service resumes on July 19, they can download the app from the Apple or Google app stores to familiarize themselves with the interface.

For the safety of Ride On customers and employees, all riders using MCDOT’s public transportation system—including all Ride On buses, the Flash, and Flex—must wear face coverings for the duration of their trips as required by the Federal masking mandate. All buses have a supply of face coverings for riders who cannot provide their own.  Bus interiors will continue to be cleaned by the County’s Department of General Services twice daily with hospital-grade viral disinfectant. Bus filter and ventilation systems are treated each night with a disinfectant.

To find more information about Ride On, go to RideOnBus.com. To receive updates, sign up for email alerts, and for text alerts, text MONTGOMERY RIDEON to 468311.

Follow Ride On on FacebookTwitter, YouTube and Instagram. Also, riders can  call 311 within the County or 240-777-0311 outside the County.